Lancashire's Police and Crime Panel have backed the Police and Crime Commissioner's choice of Deputy, at a confirmation hearing.

Andy Pratt MBE started in his role today and while working alongside PCC Andrew Snowden he will have a particular focus on criminal justice, victims’ services, community engagement and supporting Andrew in policy development on his number one priority – to lead the fight against crime in Lancashire.

The panel, made up of cross party representatives from local authorities across Lancashire, questioned Mr. Pratt during a special meeting at King Georges Hall, Blackburn, where they asked him about his skills and experience, why he wanted to be Deputy and what he would bring to the role.

His appointment follows a distinguished career in policing where Andy worked through the ranks from Police Constable up to Superintendent, including a secondment to London as a Temporary Chief Superintendent to work on national policing policy. Andy retired from policing in 2010 and has focussed on a range of voluntary roles across the county since.

Speaking after the meeting, he said: "As Deputy I will work tirelessly to support Andrew as the PCC and his main priority to lead the fight against crime in Lancashire and make people feel safer in all our communities.

"I am fully behind the Commissioner's approach to tackling issues such anti-social behaviour, reoffending and building strong community links, as we crack down on crime and get criminals off the streets.

"I cannot wait to get started and I am looking forward to utilising decades of experience across a career devoted to service in Lancashire, to support Andrew's drive to make a positive difference in making Lancashire safer."

Andrew Snowden, Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner added: "I am delighted that Andy is now in post and ready to hit the ground running as we lead the fight against crime in Lancashire.

"Andy’s focus will be to work with me on new plans and initiatives, supporting me in holding the Chief Constable to account for delivering against the priorities I set out in my Police and Crime Plan.

"There is no one more suited to supporting my work in the coming years to get tough on crime, support victims, and ensure all areas of Lancashire have access to the police when they need them."